WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump said Monday he would consider using presidential pardons to protect Elon Musk, White House staffers and other allies if Democrats gain congressional power and launch investigations after the midterm elections.
Speaking on Miranda Devine’s “Pod Force One” podcast, Trump said he would act if Democrats targeted Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX who has become one of the Republican Party’s largest financial supporters. He also raised the possibility of issuing preemptive pardons to people serving in his administration. Axios first reported the remarks.
The comments come as House Democrats prepare for the possibility of obtaining subpoena power. Democratic lawmakers have discussed investigations into the Trump administration’s relationships with corporations and wealthy supporters, including Musk, whose political spending this cycle has exceeded $400 million. Axios reported that Democrats are examining potential conflicts involving companies and executives with unusually close ties to the administration.
Musk has responded aggressively to those plans. In October, he warned Democrats considering investigations that he would uncover who was “pulling the strings” behind them and retaliate politically.
A presidential pardon, however, would not prevent Congress from investigating Musk or administration officials, issuing subpoenas or holding public hearings. Presidential clemency applies to federal criminal offenses; it does not erase Congress’ constitutional oversight authority or protect someone from state prosecutions.
Trump did not identify specific alleged crimes for which Musk or his aides might require pardons. His comments instead portrayed potential clemency as protection against what he considers politically motivated investigations.
The administration has already taken steps to prepare for congressional scrutiny. In August, the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel argued that executive privilege can extend in some circumstances to communications between Trump and private outside advisers, a theory that could become the subject of court battles if Democrats pursue subpoenas.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
